Warm, creamy, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor, this Keto Taco Soup is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. With just a handful of ingredients, it comes together quickly for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and low-carb.
📝 Recipe Card
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Badges
✅ Keto-Friendly
✅ Low-Carb
✅ Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (hamburger)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with chilies
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions
- Brown Beef & Onion → In a large pot, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Cream Cheese → Stir in cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Add Flavor Base → Mix in Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, and taco seasoning. Stir well.
- Simmer → Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve → Ladle into bowls and top with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and your favorite garnishes.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust spice level by using mild or hot Rotel tomatoes.
🌟 Introduction
This hearty soup has all the flavors of tacos—seasoned beef, zesty tomatoes, and rich cheese—turned into a one-pot keto-friendly comfort meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick, filling, and family-approved.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the Meat → Browning adds depth of flavor. Be sure to drain grease to keep the soup lighter.
- Melt the Cream Cheese → Adding it early ensures it blends smoothly without clumps.
- Simmer to Blend Flavors → A gentle simmer allows the spices and tomatoes to meld beautifully with the creamy broth.
💡 Tip: If the soup looks too thick, add more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered a little longer.
🧾 Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Ground Beef → Can be swapped for ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
- Rotel Tomatoes → Use fire-roasted for extra smoky flavor, or plain diced tomatoes if you want less spice.
- Taco Seasoning → Store-bought packets work, but homemade seasoning lets you control salt and spice.
- Cream Cheese → Key to keto creaminess. Sub with mascarpone for a smoother flavor.
🍽 Variations & Serving Ideas
- Cheesy Upgrade → Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar directly into the soup.
- Loaded Bowl → Top with avocado, jalapeños, or crushed pork rinds for crunch.
- Low-Carb Chili → Add extra beef and reduce broth for a thicker, chili-like dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
- Serve with keto tortillas or cheese crisps for dipping.
🥡 Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
- Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop, stirring to re-incorporate creaminess.
⚖️ Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbs: 6 g (net)
- Fiber: 1 g
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and onion first, then add everything to the crockpot. Cook on low for 4–5 hours.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Try swapping cream cheese with coconut cream, though it will change the flavor.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when cooking the beef.
💬 Personal Note
This is one of my go-to weeknight dinners—easy, cozy, and customizable. Every time I make it, I top mine with avocado and extra jalapeños for a spicy kick, while my family loves piling on cheese and sour cream.